pickle juice

American  

[pik-uhl joos] / ˈpɪk əl ˌdʒus /

noun

1. the vinegar-rich brine that vegetables, eggs, etc., have been preserved in, especially the liquid in a jar of dill pickles, sometimes consumed for its purported health benefits.

2. any briny, vinegar-rich beverage purported to have such health benefits as muscle cramp relief and blood glucose control, but also high enough in sodium and acidity to be potentially risky for those with such conditions as hypertension and stomach ulcers.

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Etymology

Origin of pickle juice

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Adjust the acid if needed; a final flick of lemon or pickle juice can sharpen everything into focus.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

Alcaraz had treatment to both thighs and was also drinking pickle juice, but his movement improved as the match went on.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2026

Alcaraz continued but his movement was hampered and he lost his first set of the tournament, before the pickle juice kicked in and he fought on.

From Barron's • Jan. 30, 2026

“I don’t think it’s just the weather. I’ve seen cramps in cold weather, hot weather, in rain. Everyone has their own list how to treat — coconut water, bananas, pickle juice, mustard, Gatorade.”

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 23, 2025

The juice spilled down my chin as pickle juice often did on Uri.

From "Milkweed" by Jerry Spinelli